Tree care and maintenance is not as easy it seems. There are special tools needed as well as necessary skills to make sure you’re doing things properly and safely. These skills aren’t learned overnight. In fact, even some gardeners don’t claim to have tree expertise and would rather recommend tree companies to do tree care and maintenance. When it comes to tree pruning, it’s not as simple as pruning smaller plants. In most cases, expert assistance is highly recommended.

Tree pruning is a service commonly offered by tree companies. Since trees have larger branches and limbs, it can be difficult to simply use pruning shears or scissors. It is also challenging and very risky to climb up a tree on your own for successful pruning. If you insist on DIY tree pruning, remember that you’re doing this at your own risk. And to help you out, here’s a simplified tree pruning guide:

1. Dead Branches - Identify dead branches and remove them from the tree. Don’t cut the entire branch. Simply cut until the part where the healthy branch starts. As much as possible, avoid damaging the healthy part.

2. Unhealthy Branches - If a branch seems to be unhealthy or there’s something odd or different about it, remove it from the tree. This way, should there be any tree disease starting on these branches, spreading the disease to other tree parts can be prevented.

3. Overgrown Branches - When branches seem to be overgrown, it is time to remove them. When they brush against each other, cut down the branch that brushes against another branch.

These are the basics that you must know about tree pruning. Again, it is best to call a tree company for the sake of your safety. Especially if you’re dealing with higher branches, holding on to the tree simply won’t be enough. It is best to wear safety gear and use a crane that would lift you up to those parts of the tree. If you’re renting out a crane just for this purpose, then it is best to just spend to get professional assistance.

Furthermore, improper pruning can hinder or stop tree growth. We’ve seen many trees that stopped growing or bearing fruits or flowers because of improper pruning methods.

For tree pruning assistance in the New Smyrna Beach area, the best company to call is New Smyrna Tree Service. We offer all kinds of tree care and maintenance services in the Volusia County area and beyond from tree pruning to tree removal and many more. Call us at 386-267-8027 for a free estimate.